Proud to be a leading innovation provider of specialty chemicals for the lubricants & metalworking industry
Proud to be a leading innovation provider of specialty chemicals for the lubricants & metalworking industry
We develop innovative solutions to enable customers to formulate lubricants from world-class specialty chemical manufacturers.
We develop innovative solutions to enable customers to formulate lubricants from world-class specialty chemical manufacturers.
At Azelis, we’re rethinking the role of a traditional distributor, offering a blend of expertise, ambition, and experience in our position as a global innovation service provider. We’re fueled by our purpose to make the world a better place, while empowering the growth ambitions of our partners through a range of sustainable formulations, innovative solutions, and pioneering digital platforms.
At Azelis, we’re rethinking the role of a traditional distributor, offering a blend of expertise, ambition, and experience in our position as a global innovation service provider. We’re fueled by our purpose to make the world a better place, while empowering the growth ambitions of our partners through a range of sustainable formulations, innovative solutions, and pioneering digital platforms.
Our market coverage includes automotive engine oils, automotive driveline fluids, offhighway equipment, agricultural equipment, industrial fluids, marine engines oils and power generation systems, mineral and synthetic base fluids, and metalworking fluids.
Our market coverage includes automotive engine oils, automotive driveline fluids, offhighway equipment, agricultural equipment, industrial fluids, marine engines oils and power generation systems, mineral and synthetic base fluids, and metalworking fluids.
Want to learn more about Azelis and our different offerings?
Want to learn more about Azelis and our different offerings?
Connect with us now:
Connect with us now:
kunal.narandass@azelis.com
kunal.narandass@azelis.com
Phone number: +254 724 216 787
Phone number: +254 724 216 787
The Market Report
FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA to increase local production capacity
TotalEnergies Energies Tanzania bags lubricants awards
Bureau Veritas Kenya to operate and manage Yana Oil Limited lubes laboratory
PIEA holds its first Africa lubricants & coolants Summit
What’s New: Products and Innovations
Valvoline™ Global Operations Unveils Motor Oil: Restore & Protect
Kraton launches bio-based oils
Texaco Lubricants introduces E-fluids
Oman Oil launches new lubricant packaging across all markets
Eurol launches a coolant and a transmission fluid
13-17
In Other Worlds
Brenntag to acquire Solventis Group
Nynas and Stena Recycling to push circularity to the electrical industry
Chevron Lummus and Hongrun Petrochemical Commissions a Hydroprocessing White Oil Unit
Infineum Celebrates 25 years of Operations
Rymax Lubricants Reports Best Year Yet in 2023
FUCHS ECOCOOL GLOBAL 1000 Coolant Acquires Airbus Approval
Dr. James Wakiru
Lubezine Magazine | Editor-in-Chief
Africa, the next frontier
Welcome to the 48th edition of Lubezine Magazine and the first edition in 2024. This year has started with significant strides, especially in the African lubricants market, particularly in Kenya.
Our cover feature focuses on Azelis Kenya launching the lubricants and metal working fluids additives in the East African market. Apart from the additives, Azelis will supply premium base oils and specialty chemicals. These products will be sourced from its principals: Chevron Base Oils, Chevron Oronite, Chevron Phillips Chemical, Evonik Oil Additives, SI Group, SYENSQO, and Ergon International Inc.
In addition to availing these products to its customers;Azelis will offer technical services, ensure the products are locally and readily available, access services from Azelis L+MWF testing labs in Italy and South Africa to the customers and guarantee a ready team in Kenya and South Africa to help out its clients in the African region.
Africa (PIEA) recently conducted the first edition of the Africa Lubricants & Coolants Summit, Exhibition and Training Workshop. This event provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss the science of lubricants and coolants and the opportunities and challenges present in this industry, among other key topics. Professionals from some of the Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) were in attendance, and the resounding voice was that the OMCs would have to be at the center of driving the change they desired to see in the industry.
Bureau Veritas, which was a sponsor and a presenter at the PIEA summit and a major player in the Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC) industry, will take over the operation and management of Yana Oil Limited’s lubricating oil laboratory in Nairobi, effective March 1, 2024. This will revolutionize the industry’s testing to ensure that lubricants meet industry standards. The official launching ceremony will be held on April 16, 2024.
Additionay, we feature the Southern African Institute of Tribology (SAIT): an organization that offers a platform for
Contributors:
James Wakiru
Miriam Wangari
Thomas Norrby ExxonMobil Aviation ENOC APOLCO
Photography: Media Agencies Lubezine Library
training professionals on lubrication, friction, and wear. Since its existence, SAIT has established technical knowledge transfer through technical meetings and mini-seminars on topics of interest in lubrication and materials, such as wear of materials, bearings, gears, and condition monitoring.
Still, in the South African market, we focus on Africa Group Lubricants (AGL), an indigenous South African lubricants company and a subsidiary of enX Group, an industrial group listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. ExxonMobil has awarded AG Lubricants the right to manufacture automotive lubricants in South Africa. Moreover, AG Lubricants has been granted local blending rights on certain product ranges for the mining, construction, and agricultural sectors. This and other articles await you in the magazine. We are excited to see what is happening in the African landscape and look forward to more growth. .
David Jeffries djeffries@onlymedia.co.uk Only Media Ltd, United House 39-41 North Road, London N7 9DP, UK info@lubesafrica.com www.lubezine.com
end-users, marketers and suppliers to the oil industry. Lubezine is a quarterly publication of Lubes Africa Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be produced or transmitted in any form including photocopy or any storage and retrieval system without prior written permission from the publishers. ISSN 2664 3235 (Print) ISSN 2708-843X (Online)
THEMARKETREPORT
NEWS • BRIEFING • NEW PRODUCTS • TECHNOLOGY
LUBES DIARY: Lubricants Expo North America | FAQS: Aviation greases explained
FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA to increase local production capacity
FUCHS LUBRICANTS
SOUTH AFRICA is set to increase its lubricants production capacity by investing ZAR218 million (USD11.5 million) to expand the production plant. This expansion is the second phase of an overall expansion strategy that started five years ago. Phase One of the investment plan
involved acquiring additional land at the Isando facility and constructing a new warehouse and head office complex, completed in mid-2022.
Paul Deppe, Managing Director at FUCHS Lubricants
South Africa said: “The next part of our expansion is to increase our production capacity. This is necessary as
the current plant is running at capacity 24/7. We had to look at expanding our production capability to meet market demand. The new plant, which is automated, is an expansion of the existing plant and will bring about a much-needed capacity increase. 80% of the project spend will be local, and the balance will be imported,
TOTALENERGIES
Winning lubricants awards in Tanzania P.4
RYMAX LUBRICANTS
Reporting 2023 as the best performance year yet P.13
BUREAU VERITAS
Operating and managing Yana Oil Limited lubricants laboratory P.4
INFINEUM
Celebrating 25 years of operation P.12
FUCHS
Investing in its blending plant to increase local production in South Africa P.3
Getting Airbus approval for the FUCHS ECOCOOL
GLOBAL 1000 coolant P. 13
CHEVRON LUMMUS
Commissioning Hongrun Petrochemical’s hydroprocessing white oil unit P.12
VALVOLINE
Unveiling a new motor oil: Restore & Protect P.8
NYNAS
Partnering with Stena Recycling to boost circularity in the electrical industry P.11
BRENNTAG
Acquiring Solventis Group P.11
PETROLEUM INSTITUTE OF EAST AFRICA
Hosting the first lubricants and coolants summit P.6
mainly for automation.”
Esther Seabi, Sustainability Director at FUCHS, highlighted that in line with the FUCHS Net Zero goals, the project will focus on energy efficiency and renewable energy as key drivers. Features include insulation, Variable Speed Drives (VSDs), heat recovery from heated products and flue gas, and a solar photovoltaic (PV) system. Recently, FUCHS received an accolade from the Green Building Council South Africa (GBCSA) Leadership Awards for 2021-2022. In addition, the new FUCHS head office has been certified as net zero carbon.
Mr Deppe is confident that FUCHS will continue growing its footprint in Africa. “We are steadily increasing our market share and expanding throughout Sub-Saharan Africa from our regional hub in Isando,” he concluded. .
TEXACO LUBRICANTS
Launching e-fluids P.9
ROSE FOUNDATION
Celebrating 30 years anniversary P.6
OMAN OIL
Launching new lubricants packaging across all markets P.10
KRATON
Introducing bio-based oils P.8
EUROL
Debuting a coolant and transmission fluid P.10
New FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA warehouse. SOURCE | FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA
THEMARKETREPORT
TotalEnergies Marketing Tanzania bags lubricants awards
TotalEnergies Marketing Tanzania LTD won two awards at the 17th President’s Manufacturer of the Year Awards, organized and hosted by the Confederation of Tanzania Industries (CTI). The awarding event was held in Dar es Salaam and officiated by the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Hon. Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The President’s Manufacturer of the Year Awards (PMAYA) competition is an annual event organized by the Confederation of Tanzania Industries (CTI) to recognize outstanding industries of the preceding year. In the 2023 competition, TotalEnergies
Marketing Tanzania LTD was awarded the second runner-up of the overall 17th Presidential Manufacturer of the Year
Award and the winner of the best Oil Blending Plant for large industries.
Speaking during the
awarding event, the Managing Director, Mamadou Ngom, said, “It is with high delight that we have received these two awards today. These affirm our commitment to thrive through our Lubricant and Oil blending plant that produces lubricants, coolants, and Greece for the Tanzania market, the East African market, and beyond. We are proud of the employment opportunities and CSR initiatives we provide in society, enabling the acknowledgment and honor we received tonight. Our commitment continues and will forever be prolonged.” .
Bureau Veritas Kenya to operate and manage Yana Oil Limited lubes laboratory
Yana Oil Limited has entered into an agreement with Bureau Veritas, a major player in the Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC) industry, to take over the operation and management of Yana Oil Limited’s lubricating oil laboratory in Nairobi, effective March 1, 2024.
Yana Oil manufactures lubricants for automotive and industrial purposes and offers toll-blending services to some of the major oil players in the market. The company operates a Lube Oil Blending Plant (LOBP) in Nairobi with a total capacity of 20 million litres per year.
Betrand Martin, Senior Vice President of Bureau Veritas Africa, said: “With a rich history of expertise in testing, inspection, and certification, Bureau Veritas is delighted of
this partnership which marks a significant step forward for Bureau Veritas supporting the Oil & Petrochemical clients in East Africa. Bureau Veritas is committed to leveraging our technology, knowledge, capabilities, and experience to provide clients with exceptional regulatory support and quality assurance. “This collaboration not only strengthens Bureau Veritas’s presence in the region but also underscores its dedication to supporting clients in addressing safety, quality, and sustainability challenges in the oil and petrochemical industry.”
“By taking over the operation of the Yana Oil Lubricants Laboratory, Bureau Veritas aims to elevate industry standards and ensure that all related products meet rigorous quality requirements. This partnership and the opportunity to offer our technical capabilities will
ensure we provide precise results to major industry players,” added Cyprian Kabbis, District Chief Executive, Bureau Veritas East Africa.
We are excited to partner with Bureau Veritas and benefit from their vast experience and capabilities,” commented Kamran Kangari, CEO of Yana Oil Limited. “Their involvement will undoubtedly enhance our operations and help us deliver even greater value to our customers.”
Bureau Veritas is a key player in laboratory testing,
tion, and certification services. Created in 1828, the Group has about 84,000 employees located in 1,600 offices and laboratories worldwide. In Africa, Bureau Veritas is present in over 30 countries. Bureau Veritas helps its clients improve their performance by offering services and solutions to ensure that their assets, products, infrastructure, and processes meet standards and regulations regarding quality, health and safety, environmental protection, and social responsibility. .
TANZANIA
inspec-
KENYA
The President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Hon. Samia Suluhu Hassan and the Director of Legal, Corporate Affair, HR and Administration for TotalEnergies Marketing Tanzania LTD, Getrude Mpangile receiving an award on behalf of TotalEnergies. SOURCE | TOTALENERGIES TANZANIA
Bureau Veritas at PIEA Summit. SOURCE | BUREAU VERITAS
PIEA holds its first Africa lubricants & coolants Summit
The Petroleum Institute of East Africa (PIEA) conducted the first edition of a two-day summit on March 14th—15th, 2024, themed “2024 Africa Lubricants & Coolants Summit, Exhibition and Training Workshop.” This event provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss the science of lubricants and coolants and the opportunities and challenges present in this industry, among other key topics.
In attendance were professionals from some of the Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs), Bureau Veritas, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), and the Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB), among others.
The summit brought together industry experts and market leaders to discuss how to improve the lubricants industry in general. The resounding voice was that the OMCs would have to be at the center of driving the change they desire to see in the industry.
Discussions and presentations focused on the major issues in the lubricants industry, which include the mismatch between lubrication and maintenance and the need to harmonize these two aspects in the lubes industry. Coolants were also discussed extensively. The major challenge is the lack of a testing facility to ascertain whether they comply with existing standards. This has led to the proliferation of fake coolants (colored water) that cost the economy over 4 million dollars annually in importing radiators, water pumps,
thermal stats, etc.
Other presentations focused on financing the industry, standards and regulations, and product testing, as well as on the challenges facing the lubricants industry. Some of the difficulties highlighted were disturbing. The menace of counterfeit products is getting worse. Mohamed Baraka, the Managing Director of Synergy Lubricants, who presented on this topic, brought to light the gravity of how bad the situation is, as there is a new trend, especially in the coastal region called “kanjanja oil,” where recycled
ROSE Foundation to celebrate its 30 years anniversary
The Rose Foundation, a South African-based oil recycling company, will be celebrating its 30th Anniversary in May 2024 commemorating the incorporation of The ROSE Foundation in 1994.
The membership of ROSE Fundation is made up of Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) in South Africa. These
producers are required to be registered as producers of lubricants on the Department of Fisheries, Forestry, and Environment (DFFE) website according to the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) requirements. All the companies that are affiliated with ROSE have registered as producers.
The ROSE Foundation was
established in April 1994 after the government of South Africa withdrew support for the used oil re-refining industry. Previously, lubricants were taxed to subsidize re-refining used oil back into lubricating oil. When this subsidy was removed, the major lubricant companies operating in South Africa took it upon themselves to help protect the environ-
lubricants are sold in used plastic water bottles.
The exhibition provided a platform for industry players to showcase their products and services. Companies like Ola Energy, the silver sponsor, displayed their products. Other sponsors were Galana Energies, Bureau Veritas, Shell, TotalEnergies, and BASF. The training workshop covered product formulation and manufacturing, proper selection and application of engine oils, greases, and coolants, and sustainable waste management.
From the above presentations and other discussions, there was unanimous agreement that Kenya’s lubricants industry has many opportunities to explore. The industry’s challenges will require collaborations and partnerships from all industry players, as well as the government and private sector, to formulate solutions.
PIEA hopes to have another summit in the future and have more attendance from the OMCs operating in the Kenyan market. .
ment. So they formed the ROSE Foundation to prevent the irresponsible dumping and burning of used lubricating oil. ROSE’s primary objective is to collect as much used lubricating oil as possible and to add as much value to this oil within the strictest environmental standards. .
KENYA
SOUTH AFRICA
Dr. James Wakiru, Lubezine’s Magazine Editor in Chief, presenting at the PIEA Summit. SOURCE | PIEA
THELUBESDIARY
March 19 - 21
Lubricant Expo North America
Detroit, Michigan, USA https://lubricantexpona.com/
April 15 - 19
MACH 2024 and The Engineering Supply Chain Show 2024 Birmingham, UK www.machexhibition.com
April 16 - 17
UNITI Mineral Oil Technology Congress 2024 Stuttgart, Germany https://www.umtf.de/
April 17 - 19
Tribology 2024 – Tribology International Conference Vienna, Austria
ELGI 34th Annual General Meeting Madrid, Spain https://www.elgi.org/
May 15 - 16
CHEMUK 2024 Birmingham, UK www.chemicalukexpo.com
May 19 - 23
78th STLE Annual Meeting & Exhibition Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
https://www.stle.org/ annualmeeting
June 18 - 20
Lubricants, Tribology and Condition Monitoring (LUBMAT 2024)
San Sebastian, Spain www.lubmat.org
San Sebastian, Spain PHOTO | FREEPIK, WIRESTOCK
HOW LONG DOES GREASE LAST? WHAT’S THE AVERAGE SHELF LIFE FOR AVIATION GREASES?
Aviation Greases explained
What makes aviation greases different from other lubrication grease types (e.g., bearing or multipurpose)?
Although aviation and other forms of lubricating greases may share some similar ingredients, aviation greases may differ in the technology and performance attributes required to meet or exceed the aviation industry specifications.
Aviation greases undergo very high levels of scrutiny regarding quality assurances and quality controls versus standard multipurpose greases. They also undergo extensive performance testing to assure compliance with OEM, military, and civil specification requirements. In addition, aviation grease formulations cannot substitute new additives, base oils, or thickeners without obtaining OEM, military, and civil authority endorsement. In many cases, full requalification of the grease may also be required before a change is approved.
What causes grease to produce an odor? Does grease odor impact performance?
While many base oils and additives used in greases have a defined odor when fresh, odors can also result from in-service degraded grease. Greases containing an ester base stock may be susceptible to hydrolysis and could generate an odor.
Some base stocks, such as polyalphaolefin (PAO), minimize odors when used in grease formulation. For example, ExxonMobil aviation greases formulated from 100 percent polyalphaolefin
(PAO) base oil, such as Mobilgrease™ 33, will minimize these objectionable odors. Grease odor does not impact grease performance.
How do aviation greases help operators’ sustainability initiatives?
Grease with a long shelf life can reduce waste disposal, carrying costs, and inventory turnover, thereby advancing the sustainability initiatives of the operators.
It is imperative that such greases with long shelf life continue to offer the same quality of benefits throughout their entire lifespan.
A good example is Mobilgrease™ 33 and Mobilgrease™ 28, which offer a 10-year life span, and Mobil™ Aviation Grease SHC 100, which provides a 6-year life span.
What happens to greases when exposed to water?
We recommend avoiding exposure to high water concentrations, including precipitation and de-icing fluids on the tarmac. Potential issues could involve hardening or softening of the greases, increased corrosion, or decreased effectiveness of the performance additives. For greases formulated with ester base stocks, you may see increased hydrolysis or breakdown of the grease.
To be safe, we recommend that technicians evaluate their grease every 10,000 hours for irregularities and consult their supplier with any questions. Hydrolysis is preventable.
ExxonMobil Aviation greases are not formulated using ester base stock.
How long does grease last? What’s the average shelf life for aviation greases?
Shelf-life specifications can differ between aviation greases. The average industry shelf life of aviation greases is about three years. Some companies offer extended shelf life; for example, ExxonMobil aviation greases have extended shelf life ranging from six to 10 years – more than double the industry standard.
ExxonMobil aviation grease shelf life is listed as the “use by” date on the container. To maximize shelf life, normal storage temperatures should range from 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F), and containers should be kept indoors in a clean and dry environment to avoid hydrolysis and other environmental factors.
What does the color of grease mean? Why does aviation have red, green, blue, and tan-colored greases?
The color of fresh grease is simply a function of dyes added to the formulation, which is often required by aviation industry organizations such as SAE International Aerospace or by an OEM QPL-specific directive. Specifications require other greases to be free of dyes.
Different grease colors sometimes help to avoid accidentally mixing greases; however, greases with the same color are not always compatible. .
This article is courtesy of ExxonMobil Aviation. Find out more information via https://www. exxonmobil.com/en/aviation
Africa is a continent brimming with untapped potential and burgeoning industries. As the continent continues its journey toward economic growth and industrialization, the demand for innovative solutions to enhance productivity and efficiency has never been greater. In the dynamic landscape of automotive and industrial maintenance, the role of lubricants cannot be overstated. From ensuring smooth engine performance to prolonging the lifespan of machinery, the right choice of additive lubricant is indispensable. Today, APOLCO introduces an array of additives tailored to meet the unique needs of the African Markets.
About APOLCO
APOLCO has become a one-stop solution for all additive lubricant users. The company offers market-competitive products with tested quality for a competitive price. APOLCO, as a manufacturer, carefully selects raw materials and formulates products that enable the customer to be ahead of the competition. APOLCO has an extensive product portfolio that is suitable throughout all African regions.
Commitment to Superior Quality:
At the heart of APOLCO’s values lies a dedication to excellence. Each product undergoes rigorous testing and QOPP (Quality Optimal Performance Procedure) measures to ensure optimization in diverse operating conditions. From extreme temperatures to high-pressure environments, their additives excel, providing unmatched protection and performance. APOLCO additives are developed using in-house lab testing as well as external parties such as Intertek and SGS for preserving high quality. APOLCO ensures quality and consistency by ensuring product performance with its additive blend.
Customized Solutions to the African Market:
APOLCO understands diverse industry needs by offering tailored additives for specific applications. Whether it’s automotive, agricultural, industrial, or marine sectors, the solutions are designed to enhance efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and prolong equipment life. APOLCO’s team of experienced professionals is readily available to offer technical support, product recommendations, and troubleshooting assistance to ensure customer satisfaction.
Embracing Innovation through Research and Development:
Research and Development is the cornerstone of APOLCO’s operations. The team of experts continues to explore how to develop products with advanced formulations through rigorous testing in their lab. APOLCO creates tailor-made solutions that meet customer-specific requirements.
Driving Economic growth and Community development:
Beyond delivering exceptional products, APOLCO is committed to contributing to economic growth and empowering community development across Africa. Through strategic partnerships with local manufacturers, APOLCO facilitates job creation, skill development, and capacity building within communities. APOLCO aims to catalyze positive socio-economic change through nurturing talent and fostering entrepreneurship.
Customer Centric Approach:
At APOLCO, customer satisfaction is paramount. Offering personalized support, technical expertise, and after-sales services, APOLCO prioritizes building client relationships. Through an open feedback mechanism, they continuously adapt to evolving customer needs, fostering trust and loyalty.
APOLCO and AFRICA:
APOLCO currently distributes additives across ten distinct African nations. Operating from Tunisia, APOLCO maintains an office and warehouse equipped with local personnel to efficiently manage operations throughout Africa. Effective communication is the key and APOLCO hires local employees to bridge any gaps with their clients.
APOLCO represents more than just an additive lubricant provider. It embodies a vision for progress, empowerment, and growth. With a firm belief, APOLCO is driving change, empowering communities, and shaping a bright future for Africa and beyond.
APOLCO is a global additive supplier around the world with offices on four continents.
Outstanding treat rates backed by tested data.
Multifunctional product for Automotive and Industrial applications. Passed all bench tests.
Available in Drums, IBC and Bulk.
Complete range of additives
Global supply chain
Global operations
Customer centric
Quality assurance
For more details, contact below email: sales@apolco-international.com
WHAT’S NEW
PRODUCTS & INNOVATIONS
FORMULATION INNOVATION
Valvoline™ Global Operations Unveils Motor Oil: Restore & Protect
Valvoline Global has announced a global launch of a full synthetic motor oil: Restore & Protect. Restore & Protect is designed for gasoline-engine automobiles, from brand-new to older, high-mileage vehicles.
This premium full synthetic product also presents two of Valvoline’s proprietary new technologies: Active Clean, which removes deposits and restores engines to run like new, and LiquiShield, which works proactively to prevent deposit formation and protects against future damage.
“We are thrilled to introduce Valvoline Restore & Protect on a global scale,” said Jamal Muashsher, President & CEO of Valvoline Global. “This product truly redefines what motor oil can achieve and positively impacts consumers and customers like never before. Restore & Protect is a testament to our commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation in the automotive industry.”
According to Valvoline Global, this latest addition to the Valvoline product portfolio is a paradigm shift in motor oil performance. It challenges traditional thinking about the category and it is the culmination of three years of
Kraton launches bio-based oils SUSTAINABILITY
Kraton Corporation, an American-based company, producing specialty polymers and bio-based products derived from pine wood pulping co-products, announced the launch of SYLVASOLV™, a new line of hydrocarbon oils. This product is designed to deliver good performance and environmental advantages across many industries, including agrochemicals, adhesives, and lubricants.
“We are excited to introduce SYLVASOLV bio-based oils to the market,” said Lana Culbert, Kraton’s Senior Director of Global Marketing. “The launch of SYLVASOLV 1000 further demonstrates Kraton’s commitment to providing sustainable, high-performance alternatives to petroleum-based products.”
The SYLVASOLV product line is derived from Crude Tall Oil (CTO), a by-product of the Kraft pulp
relentless development, resulting in Valvoline’s most technologically advanced engine oil ever, which removes up to 100% of enginekilling deposits with continuous use, restoring engines to run
like factory-clean engines while protecting against future damage.
Valvoline Restore & Protect is poised to hit shelves and Valvoline business partners globally in 2024. .
industry, and it is sourced from responsibly managed forests and non-genetically modified trees that do not compete with food crops or require change of land use.
Kraton’s polymers are used in various applications, including adhesives, coatings, consumer and personal care products, sealants and lubricants, medical, packaging, automotive, paving, and roofing products. As one of the global providers in the pine
chemicals industry, the company’s pine-based specialty products are sold into adhesive, road and construction, and tyre markets, and it produces and sells a broad range of performance chemicals into markets that include fuel additives, oilfield chemicals, coatings, metalworking fluids, and lubricants, inks, and mining. Kraton offers its products to a diverse customer base in over 70 countries. .
SOURCE | VALVOLINE
Texaco Lubricants introduces E-fluids
Texaco Lubricants, part of the Chevron family of brands, is adding a new range of electric fluids (e-fluids) into its product line. The e-fluids range is being added to Texaco’s portfolio of products to support the growing electric vehicle market. In line with the company’s aim to lower the carbon intensity of its operations and grow lower carbon businesses, renewable base oils will be implemented into the e-fluids range to help reduce the lifecycle carbon intensity of the business’s product offerings.
The new e-fluids range will have heavy-duty diesel e-fluids available for use in commercial vehicles. Texaco is also developing a low-conductive coolant for both automotive and industrial applica-
tions while concurrently developing a bespoke e-grease portfolio of products.
The e-fluids will be integrated into vehicles at the manufacturers’ factories. Aftermarket specifications of the Texaco Lubricants e-fluids
range will not be available, which seems to lean towards Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) partnerships.
Multiple factors, including technological advancements and legislative changes, such as the
Condi�on
upcoming bans on the sale of new petrol, diesel, and, in some cases, hybrid vehicles in many countries across Europe have driven Texaco’s e-fluid development.
Paul Van de Ven, Chevron’s Regional Product Line Manager, said: “We cannot deny the importance of the ongoing evolution of the electric vehicle market and the electrification of mobile equipment. Chevron is leveraging its strengths and building on its capabilities to help drive progress at the speed and scale necessary to meet the world’s goals. The Texaco range of e-fluids will help our customers achieve emissions reduction goals and implement e-mobility solutions.” .
Monitoring is at the heart of machine reliability
WearCheck specialises in a range of sophis�cated condi�on monitoring techniques which help to boost the availability and reliability of machinery, thereby helping our customers to operate more efficiently and save money on maintenance costs. Machines speak, we listen, you save!
SOURCE | TEXACO LUBRICANTS
WHAT’S NEW
REBRANDING
Oman Oil launches new lubricant packaging across all markets
Oman Oil Marketing Company (OOMCO) has refreshed its lubricant packaging and launched a more visible and eco-friendly solution.
Oman Oil Lubricants is among the leading lubricant brands in Oman, and they have been servicing the automotive, commercial, and industrial segments for over a decade, expanding into other international markets.
Tariq bin Mohammed Al Junaidi, Chief Executive Officer of Oman Oil Marketing Company, said:
“We will continue to innovate and improve our offerings, including Oman Oil Lubricants, to ensure they remain a trusted and popular choice for our customers and meet their expectations. Regarding our lubricant packaging, the most essential element is the user experience. We have shifted towards even more innovative,
AUTOMOTIVE FLUIDS
meaningful and eco-friendly solutions to keep up with market demand. Our latest packaging marks a new era for our quality lubricants and improves our visibility locally and in our markets abroad.”
Oman’s fuel marketing company sells its petroleum-based lubricants in the Middle East and Northern African (MENA) region and parts of Asia. As part of its
Eurol launches a coolant and a transmission fluid
Eurol has launched two products: Eurol Transfluid ATF-CVT, a transmission fluid suitable for conventional automatic and Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs), and the second product is Eurol Coolant -36°C G12 EVO, a coolant developed specifically for the latest generation vehicles of the Volkswagen (VAG) group, including Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Seat, and Porsche.
The transmission fluid and its suitability for both transmissions make it a versatile and widely applicable product for cars from the European, Asian, and American
SOURCE | EUROL
markets. Eurol Transfluid ATF-CVT increases performance and efficiency by having oxidation and thermal stability, performing well in severe conditions, and offering long drain intervals. The product is
available in a 1-liter bottle, a 5-liter bottle, the eco-friendly 20-liter bag-in-box, a 60-liter drum, and a 210-liter barrel.
As for the Eurol Coolant -36°C G12 EVO coolant, this product
expansion strategy, Oman has a presence in Saudi Arabia and Tanzania, and they are increasing the service stations available to customers in these countries. .
is designed for VAG vehicles with VW G12 EVO / TL 774-L specification and it is compatible with VAG vehicles recommending G12+, G12++, or G13 specifications. This coolant offers protection up to -36°C and is fully mixable with other Eurol coolants meeting earlier specifications.
Eurol Coolant -36°C G12 EVO coolant offers long drain intervals and superior anti-corrosion protection and is available in a 1-liter bottle, 5-liter bottle, the eco-friendly 20-liter bag-in-box, a 60-liter drum, and a 210-liter barrel. .
SOURCE | OMAN OIL
IN OTHER WORLDS
By Miriam Wangari
EXPANSION
Brenntag to acquire Solventis Group
Brenntag, a chemicals and ingredients distributor, will acquire Solventis Group, a glycols and solvents distribution company from Antwerp, Belgium, and the UK.
Solventis Group provides tailored solutions to a diverse global customer base. Alongside a site in Scunthorpe, UK, the company operates a facility in the port of Antwerp, Belgium, a major European chemicals hub, engaging in advanced blending, storage, packing, distribution, and chemical recycling.
Ewout van Jarwaarde, Chief Executive Officer of Brenntag Essentials, said: “Brenntag Essentials combines a cost-efficient network of last mile service operations with regional and global sourcing as well as supply chain services.
Solventis Group is a highly
COLLABORATION
compatible fit to our strategy, adding tollgate capabilities and volume optionality via their Antwerp state-of-the-art site to our regional capacities while opening interregional optimization potential. The acquisition will support our integration with increasingly global supply markets while strengthening our regional
market position and customer proximity in Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA).”
The acquisition, especially with its strategically positioned Antwerp site, also improves Brenntag Essentials’ sustainability profile with increased sourcing via ships and barges and expanded
supply and delivery options through rail transport. In addition, Solventis’ proficiency in glycol recovery and recycling further enhances Brenntag’s sustainability profile.
David Lubbock, Owner and Chief Executive Officer of the Solventis Group, states: “Our global network of suppliers and customers stands to gain significant advantages from Brenntag’s extensive global reach and diverse product and service portfolio. We eagerly look forward to becoming part of the expanding Brenntag Essentials platform, offering our extensive product range encompassing glycols, solvents, and automotive products, including coolants, antifreeze, brake fluids and de-icing fluids, to a broader customer base worldwide.” .
Nynas and Stena Recycling to push circularity to the electrical industry
Nynas is partnering with Stena Recycling, Sweden’s recycling company, to bring sustainable solutions for the circular economy in the electrical industry. The partnership will leverage Nynas’ refining technology and sustainable product development alongside Stena’s transformer oil collection and recycling expertise.
Stena Recycling collects decommissioned electrical transformers and other utility equipment through an extensive European network. In the new partnership, Stena will supply Nynas with used
mineral insulating oils from these transformers, which will become feedstock for the company’s circular transformer fluids.
“In 2022, Nynas successfully launched NYTRO® RR 900X, a high-quality re-refined transformer oil which provides transformer manufacturers the opportunity to participate in a circular economy,” said Simon Day, VP of Sales & Marketing at Nynas. “While we re-refine end-of-life transformer oils that are no longer fit for service in their present form, NYTRO RR 900X maintains the highest quality
standard for which Nynas’ brands are known.”
“NYTRO RR 900X is re-refined with Nynas’ catalytic hydrogenation technology, reusing mineral oils from decommissioned transformers that would otherwise risk being burnt and wasted. Besides contributing to resource-saving when replacing virgin oil, NYTRO RR 900X reduces over 70% of GHG emissions compared to virgin Nynas oil over its lifecycle,” noted Marika Rangstedt, Sustainability Manager at Nynas.
“With more than 100 collection
centres in Northern Europe, covering all types of waste, along with multiple storage locations for transformer oil, Stena Recycling can offer complete and flexible collection solutions to the industry,” said Jan-Erik Andersson, Head of Hazardous Waste at Stena Recycling.
The partnership between Nynas and Stena Recycling will support Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), electrical utilities, and Transmission System Operators (TSOs) in transitioning to sustainable circular solutions. .
SOURCE | BRENNTAG
IN OTHER WORLDS
By Miriam Wangari
Chevron Lummus and Hongrun Petrochemical Commissions a Hydroprocessing White Oil Unit
Chevron Lummus Global LLC (CLG) commissioned a white oil hydroprocessing unit for Hongrun Petrochemical (Weifang) Co., Ltd. in China.
The new plant, which utilizes CLG’s ISODEWAXING and ISOFINISHING technologies, consists of two units: 500,000 metric tons per annum (MTPA) nameplate capacity API Group III lubricating base oil unit, with the capability to produce industrial-grade white oil, and a 200,000 metric tons per annum nameplate capacity food grade white oil unit.
“We are proud to have
ANNIVERSARY
worked with Hongrun on this project, and we have full confidence that this new unit will propel them to the forefront
Infineum Celebrates 25 years of Operations
Infineum, a joint venture company formed in 1999 between Royal Dutch Shell and ExxonMobil, and one of the leading additives manufacturers, celebrated its 25th anniversary since its inception.
Infineum CEO Aldo Govi said: “Our purpose is to create a sustainable future through innovative chemistry; so, it makes sense for us to focus on enabling the energy transition by reducing the carbon impact of the Internal Combustion Engine and developing alternative fuels.
We believe key segments in this industry will continue to develop, certain countries will continue to grow, and, although some segments are declining due to electrification,
others are resilient or instrumental in enabling e-mobility.
We want to remain leaders in sustainable transportation additives. We have a strong brand and a deep understanding of this industry, as we’ve been an integral part of it for 25 years. We understand the challenges we are all facing, and we are committed to finding solutions together.”
Infineum is a specialty chemicals company that supports areas such: as shear modification, cold flow, and wax crystal modification, optimizing formulations, anti-wear and detergency, modification of flow properties, stabilizing carbonaceous and metal particles (carbon black), and combining chemically incompatible materials effectively. .
as a leading manufacturer of premium white oil and food-grade white oil products in China,” stated Arun Arora,
CLG’s Chief Technology Officer. “CLG’s hydroprocessing expertise, complemented by our commitment to innovation, once more proves to be instrumental in helping our partners achieve their production objectives.”
White oil is a highly refined mineral oil used in various applications, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food processing, and industrial lubricants. Food-grade white oil is a special type of white oil manufactured to meet the strict purity requirements of the food and beverage industry. .
The new Hongrun Petrochemical Hydroprocessing White Oil unit. SOURCE | CHEVRON
Rymax Lubricants Reports Best Year Yet in 2023
Dutch lubricants brand Rymax Lubricants announced 2023 as its best year so far in sales. Despite the post-COVID challenges still affecting the lubricants industry in 2023, Rymax Lubricants expanded into eight new countries, introduced new products and launched a brand-new packaging line.
Rymax Lubricants Managing Director Wouter Cuppen attributed the 2023 growth to Rymax’s ability to acclimatize to the lubricants landscape. “Despite the complexities introduced by geopolitical tensions and market fluctuations, the company adapted well to the evolving landscape. This was necessary, but I am particularly proud of the way our company has managed to do so in a flexible way.”
Rymax Lubricants sold the
OEM APPROVAL
FUCHS Lubricants watermiscible coolant ECOCOOL GLOBAL 1000 has received approval from AIRBUS. The coolant has been included in the latest version of the AIRBUS Process Specification: AIPS00-00-010, which outlines the list of authorized cutting fluids for drilling and machining operations.
Airbus is a European aeronautics and space company involved in designing, manufacturing, and delivering aerospace products, services, and solutions. It operates in the commercial aircraft, helicopters, defense and space sectors.
ECOCOOL GLOBAL 1000 is a
highest amount of lubricants and greases in 2023. Mr Cuppen attributes this to the different distributors across divergent continents and sees it as a combined effort. “We’ve seen a good spread amongst our many distributors on different continents. Africa remains a vital continent for us, and in 2023, South and Middle America lived up to their reputation as growth markets. Europe positively surprised us; considered to be a saturated market, we have realized our best result here yet.”
Rymax employed a diversification strategy to facilitate this growth; which meant it did not rely on one market to push for growth. This means if one important market suffers, it is essential to be able to compensate with good results elsewhere. This diversification
also applied to the offered product assortment and sourcing possibilities.
The Commercial Director, Mr Erik Vermeer, touched on the new packaging and the latest products introduced into the market: “Rymax Lubricants is known for its vibrant orange bottles and full-colour drums. Last year, we completely revised our product packaging. We’ve updated our Corporate
Identity, invested in new, improved, and unique labels, bottles, and drums, and renewed our product portfolio. We’ve introduced a food-grade assortment and optimized our offering in the different segments. Diversifying product offering, improving production flexibility and quality, and investments in marketing and sales paid off, resulting in Rymax’s best year yet.” .
Coolant Acquires Airbus Approval
boron-free, water-miscible cutting fluid with unique quality characteristics for high-performance metal machining, especially in aerospace, medical, semiconductor technology, and many other industrial applications.
In addition, ECOCOOL GLOBAL 1000 is a multifunctional highperformance product for drilling,
turning, milling, threading, and grinding titanium and nickel-based alloys and aluminum, stainless steel, and steel. Special additives also allow for the machining of critical aluminum alloys.
Allison Dreznes, Product Manager, Metal Cutting, at FUCHS Lubricants Co., said: “We are pleased to announce this latest
approval from Airbus. This approval demonstrates the premium performance FUCHS offers the aerospace industry from nose to tail.”
This coolant offers high metal removal rates, excellent wetting and rinsing properties, long tool life, low foam formation, and targeted heat dissipation. ECOCOOL 1000 is a safe, sustainable coolant solution that can come in contact with skin and is free of formaldehyde, boron, MEA, and silicon. These fluids are exceptionally durable and economical in consumption, reducing operating, maintenance, and disposal costs. .
SOURCE | FUCHS
SOURCE | RYMAX LUBRICANTS
Azelis debuts the L&MWF segment in East Africa
Azelis Kenya Limited has recently launched a complete range of lubricants and metal working fluids (L&MWF) additives for the East African region. The launch occurred during a two-day Action Africa Lubricants and Base Oils conference held in Nairobi on March 12 and 13, 2024. Azelis senior management, lubricant blenders in East Africa, and Azelis principals attended the conference to discuss the products available for the African market.
Azelis Kenya will distribute products to the East African market from several principals, including Chevron Base Oils, Chevron Oronite, Chevron Phillips Chemical, Evonik Oil Additives, SI Group, SYENSQO, and Ergon International Inc. The product range from these companies will include base oils and additives for engine oils, drivelines, marine, Automatic Transmission Fluids (ATF), passenger car motor oils (PCMOs), heavy-duty, rail, motorcycle oil, hydraulic fluids, and gear oils. Other specialty chemicals that will be available include corrosion inhibitors, metal cleaning and treatment products, viscosity modifiers, pour point depressants, and anti-oxidants.
The senior management team from Azelis, present at the conference, included Chris Sacy, Azelis’s Managing Director of the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region; Siva Konar, Market Segment Manager of L&MWF in MEA; Boston Moonsamy, Managing Director of Azelis South Africa; and Chadi Nassar, Managing Director of Azelis Kenya. Apart from industry players, the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) and the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) also attended the conference. They had the opportunity to discuss their respective roles in improving the lubricants industry in Kenya.
On the first day of the conference, Chris Sacy gave a speech introducing Azelis as an innovation service provider to
Azelis has experienced a significant business growth in the L&MWF segments in Southern Africa, East Africa, and Ghana, after acquiring Orkila and Umongo. The L&MWF segment accounts for over 30% of MEA business.
its customers. He talked about the company’s profile and vision and mentioned that after acquiring Orkila and Umongo, Azelis had experienced business growth in the L&MWF segments in Southern Africa, East Africa, and Ghana. This segment accounts for over 30% of MEA business. Chris Sacy further highlighted that Azelis’ global activities in the MEA region are booming, and they have almost quadrupled their business in the last four years. They now have about 3500 customers in MEA. Azelis has been focusing on organic growth, but their acquisitions also represent a strategic driver to grow their business in Africa. Siva Konar added that maintaining strong customer relationships has been a key factor in their suc-
Chris Sacy, Azelis’s Managing Director of the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region. SOURCE | AZELIS
cess in Africa. Listening to the customers has helped them offer technology-driven solutions.
Boston Moonsamy, former co-founder and CEO of Umongo and current Managing Director of Azelis South Africa, explained that customers saw the acquisition of Umongo by Azelis as complementary to what they were already offer-
ing. Azelis filled the gaps in their product offering, and today they can provide customers a complete suite of products.
UNEP’s representative, Jane Akumu, discussed how UNEP is working on reducing air pollution to promote sustainability in Africa. She also talked about the partnership for the Clean Vehicles program, which supports clean fuels and vehicles. She touched on lubricants’ role in reducing air pollution and sustainability.
KEBS discussed the standards for lubricants. They explained how standards are made and how products are tested. One challenge is that standards are set in place, but implementation is complex. KEBS has a market surveillance directorate and relies on the public to inform
them about counterfeits in order to deal with the issue.
Siva Konar gave an overview of the African lubricants market, some of the changes we are witnessing, and the factors driving change. He highlighted that international players still have the lion’s share in the market, but indigenous companies are emerging. Over time, there has been a shift from mono-grade to multi-grade lubricants as demand for higher-quality lubricants is rising. There is also a growing increase in demand for Group II base oils. Some factors driving this change are legislative changes, the reduced age of imported vehicles, and economic growth across Africa.
Some challenges in the market include a lack of proper regulation for the lubricants industry. Importation of substandard goods, shipment challenges, and price differences in different countries are other challenges in the African market. Chris Sacy further reiterated the obstacles in the market and said, “One of the drawbacks we have faced in the African market is that countries vary in culture, and we have adopted different ways of penetrating the market. This has meant we need to be agile and have fit-tomarket products and logistics to support each country. The different currencies in the African countries also pose a challenge, but we are adapting our strategy to be able to serve our customers in the market.”
However, opportunities for growth in the market are still present. Over the next two days, Azelis and its principals demonstrated how they are positioned to meet the needs of the East African lubricants market. Speaking about the prospects of the L&MWF business in Africa, Siva Konar said, “The L&MWF is an exciting and growing segment Azelis is looking forward to expanding in the region. We are launching a full range of cost-effective lubricant additives, top-tier base oils, and other complementary chemicals. Our uniqueness is in innovation through formulation and working with our customers while supporting sustainability initiatives and contributing to the development of the African continent.”
Azelis’s motivation to launch the L&MWF segment in the East African market is the opportunity and growing need for high-quality lubricants. Chadi Nassar, Managing Director of Azelis Kenya, which
We are launching a full range of cost-effective lubricant additives, top-tier base oils, and other complementary chemicals. Our uniqueness is in innovation through formulation and working with our customers while supporting sustainability initiatives and contributing to the development of the African continent.”
serves the East African region, said, “The motivation behind introducing L&MWF in Kenya is the need we see in the market. Kenya is proliferating, and we believe in the market’s trajectory. We are evolving with our clients, the market, and the maturity of consumers in East Africa.” Chris Sacy added, “The East African market is quite significant, and apart from Kenya, we hope to expand to other countries in this region and set up local operations to serve those customers better.”
Azelis discussed the support that customers can expect from them. With access to a laboratory dedicated to the L&MWF segment in Milan, Italy, and operating regionally, customers will receive all the support they need. “We assure our customers that they will receive a full range of testing for all lubricant products, supporting them and their customers,” said Siva Konar. Chadi Nassar added, “Our potential customers can expect much support from all levels because we are locally and physically present, and we can connect them with our principals or labs.” Boston Moonsamy augmented, “We offer technical services to our customers, and we are well positioned to help them produce high-performance, top-tier lubricants.”
The supply chain is a big problem in the market; Azelis assures its customers that they do not have to worry about this as Azelis has dedicated teams to
take care of their customer’s needs. Siva Konar said, “To cater to the supply chain issue, we have a team in Nairobi, Kenya, and South Africa to ensure our customers are supplied. We offer products from different companies, enabling us to offer a complete package of solutions, our lateral value chain, to our customers to collaborate and ensure the goods they produce are fit for use in the market.” Chadi Nassar emphasized, “Our products are available locally, and we offer fast delivery to our clients; we also make direct shipments where we can link our suppliers to our customers locally.”
Regarding plans and what customers can expect, Azelis is committed to helping its clients grow their businesses and remain market leaders. It will offer technical support to the clientele, and the value proposition is that Azelis is continuously improving its formulations to help the customers improve the quality of their products. In the future, Azelis will look into introducing specialty chemicals, aftermarket fuel additives, and lubricant technology, amongst others.
Azelis Kenya is a subsidiary of Azelis Group NV, a leading global innovation
Azelis Kenya also services Burundi, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda. In Africa, Azelis made its inroads by acquiring Orkila in 2020. Orkila was a specialty chemicals and food ingredients distributor throughout Africa and the Middle East.
service provider in the specialty chemicals and food ingredients industry. With over 4,200 employees, Azelis is present in 65 countries worldwide and operates in Life Sciences and Industrial Chemicals.
Azelis Kenya also services Burundi, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda. In Africa, Azelis made its inroads by acquiring Ork-
ila in 2020. Orkila was a specialty chemicals and food ingredients distributor throughout Africa and the Middle East. Headquartered in Beirut, Lebanon, the Orkila group had offices in 13 countries and was active in more than 30 countries in the region, including Kenya.
The acquisition created a unique combination of Azelis’ innovation and formulation potential and international reach with Orkila’s strong local presence, regional expertise, and excellent reputation.
In 2022, Azelis acquired Umongo, a major player in the Southern African lubricants market, to further expand its African footprint. Umongo was a major supplier and service provider to the lubricant industry across Sub-Saharan Africa, providing technical support and solutions. The acquisition of Umongo in January 2022 strengthened Azelis’ foothold in industrial specialty chemicals in South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa. Azelis South Africa, formerly Umongo, services Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. .
Azelis’s Middle East & Africa (MEA) team. SOURCE | AZELIS
perma STAR Sets
ACCESSORY KITS and INSTALLATION KITS STAR
Remote mounting | Standard and Heavy Duty
INSTALLATION KITS contain all necessary parts for the complete mounting of the lubrication system to the lubrication point: mounting bracket with mounting support, support flange, hose connectors, reducers and Heavy Duty hose. The only difference between the ACCESSORY KITS and the INSTALLATION KITS is that no hose is included.
HEAVY DUTY KIT
Heavy Duty kits have been specifically designed for use in operational areas with harsh ambient conditions which are subject to regular wash down and water impact, such as the conditions found in coal handling preparation plants.
STANDARD DUTY KIT
These kits are very versatile and can be used in areas with normal ambient conditions. The kits contain all necessary parts, including a reducer M10x1 and G1/8 per lubrication point.
10 QUESTIONS
Sustainability and the lubes industry
Could you take us through your career journey in the lubricants industry?
I was offered a position at Statoil Lubricant in 1998, my first job directly after receiving my Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Sweden. I did not know much about that business, but I thought I would try it. And here I am, 26 years later!
What has been one of your most fulfilling experiences in your career in the lubricants industry?
We had many great customer projects right from the start. One was on early versions of what we now would call sustainable lubricants. Back then, we focused on readily biodegradable lubricants for total loss applications, such as mobile hydraulic fluids for mechanized forestry and agriculture. Through successful multistakeholder involvement, we could identify issues and agree on the way forward. Transparency and cooperation were vital.
We are honoured to have Prof Thomas Norrby, the Technical Manager - Lubricants and Electrical Industry- at Nynas AB, in this edition. Prof Norrby has been in the lubricants industry for over 25 years and shares his experience. Nynas is a global company specializing in NSP (Naphthenic Specialty Products) and bitumen. Nynas’ core competence is to refine heavy crude oil into a balanced mix of long-lasting, high-performance specialty products for sustainable use. 3
Can you tell us about your involvement in training the next generation of lubricant specialists?
When I look back at my education journey and transformation from a university graduate to someone with valuable skills in a development lab, I always send a
EXPERT INTERVIEW
Prof Thomas Norrby, Technical Manager - Lubricants and Electrical Industry at Nynas AB
Due to increased electricity needs, demand for lubricants used in wind turbines, hydropower, and nuclear power generation will continue to grow. E-mobility will continue spreading, gradually diminishing the demand for engine oils. This will however be a long and slow process.
thought of thankfulness to all those who went before, who were my patient teachers in the lab, in the blending plant, at our suppliers, and in the end; the customers. Any senior person with a role of responsibility; thus, must make sure that they pay back what was once given to the new upcoming generation. A rich inheritance of experience must be taught, transmitted, and handed over. This is something I gladly do! I am involved in training internally at Nynas, universities, and schools to spread the knowledge and inspire.
What do you think will be the next big thing in the field of Tribology in the coming years?
The megatrends of electrification and digitalization mean that even more attention will be paid to the tribology
of electrified systems like hybrid transmission lines and high-power electrical motors.
You have been at Nynas for over a decade and are also involved in developing some of its products made using renewable materials; what has enabled Nynas to achieve this success?
I would say that a good combination of technical skills, market outlook understanding, and a clear sense of thought leadership creates fertile ground for new and disruptive ideas and product innovation.
Nynas is big on Naphthenic products; what is the difference between naphthenic and paraffinic products?
All types of base oils contain different amounts of molecular structures or carbon types that are called paraffinic, naphthenic, or aromatic. Depending on the relative ratios of these, a base oil will be called aromatic, naphthenic, or paraffinic. So, it is a question of degree difference rather than these being chemically totally different. As a naphthenic refiner, we would select a crude that is different from a fuel refiner, for example. The finished base oils differ in many ways; for example, the solvency is much higher in a naphthenic base oil than in a paraffinic base oil of the same viscosity. In general, Group I paraffinic base oils are closer to naphthenic base oils property-wise, and Group III and Polyalphaolefins (PAOs) are more different.
Looking at the electrical industry, what are some of the unique requirements in terms of lubrication?
In the electrical industry, special transformer oils are utilized. These are dielectric fluids that provide electrical insulation and thermal cooling in addition to lubrication. There are some types of moving parts in mechanical switches that need to be sufficiently well lubricated. But the stringent requirement on low electrical conductivity precludes the usage of almost all the typical oil additives we love using in all other lubricants! Thus, the transformer oils must be kept clean and dry across the whole
Electrification of industries and transportation value chains is picking up speed, as this is the favored route to achieve decarbonization on a massive scale.
value chain from production to delivery to a power transformer at a site fill.
As a member of the Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE), how does the organization contribute to the betterment of the lubricants industry?
STLE has several vital roles. It is a hub for technical expertise and the source of important technical publications. It hosts networking events, conferences, training, and more. Through interactions, members are inspired, guided, and given answers. This is a very useful aid to anyone in the industry, especially a newcomer. I would strongly recommend getting a membership!
Sustainability has become a big topic in the lubricants industry. How would you rate the strides being made and efforts being made to achieve this?
The rate of change in the last few years has been quite impressive. Sustainability was a small specialty. Only five years ago, very few people in the company would work actively with sustainability issues, tools like Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), and reporting on specific product application development. By now, as large and mid-size companies are required to make yearly sustainability reports, it is suddenly becoming a requirement for many roles across a company. Sustainability is utilized actively in marketing, auditing, and certification through different eco-labels and as a core input into product design.
What is the outlook for business growth in the areas of base oils and transformer oils?
Could you also comment on the impact of E-mobility on the future of transformer oils?
Electrification of industries and transportation value chains is picking up speed, as this is the favored route to achieve decarbonization on a massive scale. This requires a substantial investment in the electrical grid, which means a more significant demand for transformer oils. For electrical generation needs, lubricants for wind turbines, hydropower, and nuclear power will continue to grow. E-mobility will continue to grow, gradually diminishing the demand for engine oils. But this is a long and slow process. Lubricants will continue to be critical for all types of technology, and the opportunities are many! . .
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION
SAIT promoting knowledge transfer in Tribology
Maintenance is a crucial part of every industry as it ensures that the equipment is working efficiently to reduce downtime and maximize profits. There are four types of maintenance practices that are used by most companies: Corrective Maintenance, Preventive Maintenance, Riskbased Maintenance and Condition-based Maintenance. Regardless of which type of maintenance is used, the personnel carrying out the maintenance must deal with aspects of lubrication, friction and wear of different parts of the machines.
To ensure that these professionals are carrying out maintenance using the latest technologies and are well equipped on the different aspects of maintenance, constant training is essential. . This is exactly what The Southern African Institute of Tribology (SAIT) is doing; offering a platform for training professionals on the aspects of lubrication, friction and wear.
Dating back to 1983, SAIT was started by a group of industrialists and researchers, concerned with the extent of tribological wear in South Africa, and they convened and formed the ‘Wear Society’. After several presentations on a range of wear-related subjects, the South African Institute of Tribology (SAIT) was formally launched on 29th March 1985.
SAIT was established with the following objectives:
• To provide education in industry of the science and technology of Tribology.
• To promote the transfer of information and technology related to Tribology in Southern Africa.
• To promote the development of expertise in Southern Africa with a view of solving tribological problems and reducing Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).
• To maintain membership of the International Tribology Council (ITC), and support liaison with this and other Tribology groups and societies.
• To stimulate research and development in Tribology.
• To promote the professional status of Tribology.
• To become the Tribology authority in Southern Africa.
SAIT is a member of the Southern African Engineering Community, the World ribology Body, the International Tribology Council (ITC), based in UK, and it also has a working agreement with the Society for Tribologists & Lubrication Engineers (STLE) of United States where it trains its members on lubricants and lubrication.
Since its existence, SAIT has established technical knowledge transfer through technical meetings and mini-seminars on topics of interest in the lubrication and materials fields such as wear of materials, bearings, gears and condition monitoring. It has also carried out plant visits, and international tribology conferences with local and international guest speakers and authorities in the various fields of tribology. In addition, the SAIT offers training courses which were introduced on the principles and technology of lubrication and materials. The knowledge gained by over 3 500 students, who have attended the courses so far, has been put into practice in the industry.
Some of the training courses offered by SAIT include: Lubrication Engineering which gives participants a full understanding of the principles and technology of lubrication. The course is presented as a five-day course, and it targets maintenance personnel, and anyone concerned with the operation, maintenance or management of industrial plants, machinery, transport and other lubricant related disciplines. A one-day introductory course on the same topic is directed at plant operators, buyers, artisans and apprentices.
Another course offered is Introduction
From L-R: Patrick Swan accepting the 2023 Louw Alberts Award on behalf of Dave Scott from Henco Booysen (SAIT President) SOURCE | SAIT
Best Technical Achievement award floating trophy.
SOURCE | SAIT
to Wear and Materials which is concerned with the operation, maintenance and design of plants and equipment, with a special focus on the selection and specification of wear resistant materials.
Basics of Lubricating Oils is a three -day course that will be introduced in 2024, covering the basic information about oils. The course covers the origin and manufacture of oils, a basic understanding of oil specifications and performance criteria, the reason for different oils, and their functions.
All these courses are taught by experienced industry professionals who are well versed with the needs of the industry.
To become a member of the SAIT, there are different options to choose from. These paid membership packages are corporate membership, supplementary membership, private membership, student and honorary membership.
a) Corporate Membership
This type of membership is for corporate entities. A corporate member has one nominated person who will be responsible for liaison with SAIT. All employees at the corporate unit are eligible for member discounts on SAIT courses, seminars and conferences.
b) Supplementary Membership
Corporate Members may nominate up to nine additional persons as Supplementary Members.
c) Private Membership
This membership is for any individual who has an interest in Tribology.
d) Student Membership
This is for any individual under 25 years of age in full-time study at an education establishment recognized by SAIT and who has an interest in Tribology.
e) Honorary Membership
This membership is granted at the discretion of the Executive Committee.
Whichever membership package is chosen, members of SAIT stand to reap these benefits:
• Regular information regarding the activities of the Institute.
• Reduced fees on courses, seminars and conferences.
• The STLE exams “CLS” and “OMA” are hosted in South Africa by SAIT for their members.
• The journal “SA Mechanical Engineer” is included in membership.
• The STLE journal “Tribology & Lubrication Technology” is included in membership.
• Informal forums to exchange technical and commercial knowledge with other fellow members.
SAIT also offers four annual awards to worthy recipients. These awards are divided into four categories: The Louw Alberts Award, Best Technical Achievement Award, Best Technical Presentation Award and SAIT Student Award.
a) The Louw Alberts Award
This award is given to individuals based on their contribution to tribology.
b) Best Technical Achievement Award
This award is for the best technical achievement in the field of Tribology. Entrants are required to submit a case study for consideration.
c) Best Technical Presentation Award
This is awarded annually for the best technical presentation given at SAIT technical meetings, seminars and conferences.
d) SAIT Student Award
This award goes to the best student picked from an annual competition for undergraduate and postgraduate students, for their research work and achievements in the field of Tribology.
On the 10th of November 2023, SAIT hosted an Awards Dinner for the 2023 annual awards ceremony following a successful Fuels Seminar. The awards dinner was hosted to acknowledge and celebrate excellence and hard work in the field of Tribology. The event was kickstarted by Julia Tew from The Circular Stage Consultancy who presented an engaging and enlightening presentation on sustainability and how to integrate it in all aspects of our daily lives. Her presentation was followed by good food and the presentation of awards.
Dave Scott received the Louw Alberts award for outstanding contributions to the field of Tribology over the years. This award is not always rewarded and is dependent on the availability of a worthy recipient. FUCHS Lubricants South Africa was awarded the Best Technical Achievement Award for outstanding achievements in the field of Tribology. This award was received by Leroka Selepe. The Best Technical Presentation Award was awarded to Steven Lumley for her presentation titled “Engine Killers”. Hendrik Masenya received the SAIT Student Award for his research and achievement in the field of Tribology as part of his postgraduate studies. Congratulations and well done to all recipients.
As Africa continues to undergo industrialization and the consequential increased need for well-trained maintenance professionals, bodies like SAIT are and will be instrumental in ensuring that there is a consistent flow and transfer of knowledge from experts to upcoming professionals. .
From L-R: Jo-anne Stadler, John Fitton & Patrick Swan at the 2023 Awards evening.. SOURCE | SAIT
From a family business to a major player; the story of African Group Lubricants
South Africa is one of Africa’s largest economies, with a population of around sixty-one million. Consequently, the automotive and industrial sectors are sizeable. To cater to the lubrication needs of this vast economy, South Africa has attracted many multinational Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to supply lubricants.
According to Mordor Intelligence, the country’s annual lubricant consumption is estimated at 419.90 million liters, with a projected annual growth rate of 4%.
The market continues to experience significant growth and is emerging as an attractive hub for key industry players. This market is considered one of the mature markets in Africa, and it, therefore, has a demand for high-quality lubricants. This has seen the major multinational lubricant brands take the lion’s market share.
It is impressive that despite the significant presence of multinational companies, indigenous lubricant companies are also present. These companies have a range of products specifically made for the South African landscape, and they, too, have a customer base. To take it a notch higher; some of these companies have blending plants that apply international standards to produce high-quality lubricants.
As a result of this competency portrayed by the indigenous companies, the South African lubricants market has witnessed strategic alliances, cooperation, and partnerships among these companies and the multinational players in the lubricant industry for increased efficiencies, diversification, and other operational and economic benefits.
In this article, we look at one of the indigenous lubricant companies in South Africa that have made significant strides to cement its place in the lubricants industry. Initially a family-owned enterprise, the African Group (AG) Lubricants is a recognized player in South Africa’s market. It is a subsidiary of enX Group,
an industrial group listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange that serves various industry sectors in South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa, offering branded and, in some segments, locally manufactured industrial equipment, components, services, and technical expertise across a broad spectrum of industries.
Established over 20 years ago, AG Lubricants is a manufacturer, marketer, and distributor within the lubrication industry in South Africa. It offers a range of
AG Lubricants has partnered with prominent global industry leaders in the manufacturing and distribution of lubricants. One of the companies it has partnered with is ExxonMobil, an international energy company selling the Mobil brand of lubricants. Besides being awarded the rights to manufacture automotive lubricants in South Africa by ExxonMobil, AG Lubricants has also been granted local blending rights on certain product ranges for the mining, construction, and
lubrication products and services, automotive lubricants, industrial fluids. These products are either from its lubricant’s private label or the international companies it distributes for. Besides supplying lubrication products, AG Lubricants, working alongside its lubricant engineers, partners with its clients to deliver tailored solutions that enhance and bring value to their customers’ businesses.
agricultural sectors. Under the manufacturing approval, AG Lubricants currently blends a range of ExxonMobil products such as Mobil Delvac MX 15W40, Mobil Super, Mobil AGRI, Mobilgear, and Mobilfluid, among others. Apart from these lubricants blended by AG Lubricants, ExxonMobil offers the Southern Africa market a complete range of hydraulic and lubricating products, including
AG Lubricants blending plant. SOURCE | AG LUBRICANTS
companies can produce lubricants that meet global standards.
AG Lubricants has also collaborated with Quaker Houghton and provides a range of fire-resistant hydraulic fluids and a full range of industrial fluids for various applications in metal machining, forming, forging, cleaning, and corrosion protection.
Under its private label, Centlube, AG Lubricants produces coolants, antifreeze, engine cleaners, and brake fluid. The Centlube product range is a complimentary range of ancillary products to international brands represented by African Group Lubricants.
From all of the above partnerships, AG Lubricants offers a comprehensive range of lubricant products for key industrial segments, including automotive, agricultural, steel manufacturing, energy, mining, construction, pulp and paper, and many more. Outside South Africa, AG Lubricants has a distribution footprint across the Democratic Republic of Congo, Swaziland, Lesotho, Botswana, and Mozambique.
greases, to enhance machine operational efficiencies.
Being one of the independent lubricant blenders in South Africa certified by ExxonMobil to produce its products, AG Lubricants blends according to the exact standards stipulated by the requirements of its principal. It exclusively uses base oils supplied by ExxonMobil’s Basestocks Distributor and procures additives from both domestic and international sources.
The lubricants are manufactured at AG Lubricants’s independently owned blending facility in Boksburg, Gauteng, South Africa. The independently owned
blending plant has an in-house lab, an automated packaging line with in-line labelling and heat-sealing equipment, a warehouse management facility, a supply network management system, and a Lab Information Management System (LIMS). Besides blending, the plant offers testing, filling, distribution, and stock management.
The plant complies with ISO 9001:2015 Quality and ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Certification standards. The blending facility’s laboratory aligns with the international laboratory quality standard ISO 17025:201.
ExxonMobil’s decision to give AG Lubricants blending rights for some of its products is a testament to AG Lubricants’s facility and proof that indigenous
AG Lubricants has experienced significant year-on-year growth, tripling its workforce over a decade. The company hopes to continue growing its footprint in the automotive, agricultural, and mining sectors in South Africa and surrounding countries. AG Lubricants attributes its growth trajectory to the confidence of its global partners, ExxonMobil and Quaker Houghton in AG Lubricants. AG Lubricants hopes for continued expansion and performance.
The partnerships further reflect AG Lubricants’s growing market share and expansion capabilities and speak to the critical role indigenous companies are playing in the lubricants industry. It will be exciting to see more local companies come up to have a seat at the table in the industry, not only in South Africa but also across the entire continent. .
WORD
ICIS holds the 28th edition of the World Base Oils and Lubricants Conference
The Independent Commodity Intelligence Services (ICIS) recently held its 28th World Base Oils and Lubricants Conference in London, United Kingdom, from February 6 to 8, 2024. The event brought together major lubricants and base oils industry players and seasoned professionals and Lubezine Magazine was one of the media partners.
The conference featured keynote sessions, where industry professionals like Artis Brown, the Vice President of Base stocks and Waxes from ExxonMobil, Aldo Govi, the CEO of Infineum, and Ravi Chawla, the Managing Director and CEO of Gulf Oil Lubricants India, shared insights into crucial topics regarding the industry. The Women in Base Oils & Lubricants Get-Together also celebrated and empowered women in the industry, highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusivity.
Presentations focused on topics such as base oils, sustainability, electrification, and emerging technologies like immersion cooling for data centers.
The presentation by ICIS on base oils gave insights into Europe’s 2023 base oils market and future projections. Producers are mainly focused on manufacturing for the local market, but due to a decreased demand as a result of the current economic conditions, hand-to-mouth buying is taking place, and spot buying seems to be preferred in the current demand climate.
Apu Gosalia’s session on the European Union (EU) Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive provided valuable guidance for navigating sustainability standards, while Artis Brown’s session covered lubricants’ role in a transitioning world. He underscored the changes happening in the industry, such as an increased use of Group II and Group III base oils. He also noted that technological advancements and market-based solutions are some of the critical enablers that will help deliver products capable of meeting the challenges associated with a transitioning world.
As the world moves towards electrification to achieve sustainability and lower the carbon footprint, new challenges arise for transformer oils in electric grids. Dr. Hugo Campelo, Senior Technical Advisor at Nynas AB, discussed how transformer
Presentations focused on topics such as base oils, sustainability, electrification, and emerging technologies like immersion cooling for data centers.
oils have a new set of challenges, such as the need to be scalable because of the increasing number of transformers and new potential segments requiring power. Another challenge is the need for the oils to be recyclable at the end of life, all of which the transformer oils need to solve, since the power grid continues to grow to cater to the rising electricity demand.
An emerging technology for cooling data centres is immersion cooling. While its uptake and adoption is still low, Dr. Valentina Serra-Holm of Perstorp high-
lighted the critical role immersion cooling will play in the future of data centres. She underscored that of all the energy consumption in data centres, up to 40% of that energy is used in cooling. She stressed that using immersion cooling will be more energy-efficient than the current cooling methods, and it will be a better option for data centres looking to be more sustainable.
With over 400 delegates from 45 countries, the conference provided a vibrant networking atmosphere, facilitating idea exchange and partnership building. Commenting on the conference, Clinton Anyiam, the CEO of Afribase Group, said, “The ICIS conference is always the best place to network when it comes to base oils trading.” Echoing those words, Mohammad Elsadek, Director of Lubricants at Emirates National Oil Company (ENOC), said, “The ICIS conference is definitely the best place to network here in London.”
The 29th edition of the World Base Oils and Lubricants Conference will be in 2025, and regional events will occur throughout 2024..
